Russell Brand is in talks to take the lead in Larry Charles' upcoming comedy Pierre Pierre. The actor will be replacing Jim Carrey, who was previously cast for the lead.

The comedy follows a French nihilist (Russell Brand), who has plans to steal the Mona Lisa and transport it from Paris to London. Along his voyage, he runs into a French investigator, a murderer named Pigeonshit and his brothel-running mother.

Jason Reitman was originally set to direct, but was replaced by Borat and Bruno director Larry Charles. Todd Black, Jason Blumenthal and Steve Tisch from Escape Artists are producing with Brian Sher of Category 5.

Russell Brand most recently appeared in Rock of Ages and is voicing the role of Dr. Nefario in Despicable Me 2.

No production details have been released for this project.